Our church is a very special place.

Most famously, it is probably known best as the place where William Shakespeare and Anne Hathaway were reportedly married in 1582 (although a handful of other churches also make this claim, incorrectly in our opinion!). Although Shakespeare wouldn't have known the building that stands here today (the old church was demolished in 1873 due to it's dilapidated condition) it is remarkable to think that the site has such important historical and literary links.

It was also associated with the Order of the Knights Hospitallers from the 12th to the 16th century, and who are depicted in our magnificent West stained glass window, designed by Frederick Preedy - the notable architect and stained glass artist who rebuilt the church in 1875.

But most of all, it has been at the very heart of the community since the 12th century. For 800 years, we have worshipped here, been baptised here, married here, grieved for our loved ones here, and shared our stories with each other here. Our church has witnessed the histories of our community played out through its doors, and our spiritual and social memory are embedded in this very special place.

And now the church building really needs our help. In 2018 it was added to Historic England's 'Heritage at Risk' register, due to the poor condition of our distinctive timber framed tower, the roof and the high level stonework. This year we've undertaken some critical urgent repairs, and carried out some investigation works to help us along, but there is still so much more to do. The most recent Quinquennial Inspection (2023) reports the need for urgent major repairs which we anticipate will cost more than £250,000.

Perhaps surprisingly, we (as with all PCCs) receive no funding for the upkeep and repair of our church buildings, and all necessary repairs are funded through local fundraising and grant applications. The scale of repair task ahead of us, and the funds we need to raise to complete this, feels so very far beyond our ability to manage.

We are so fortunate in this country to have such a rich heritage of ecclesiastical architecture with wonderful and interesting stories, that we feel it's hugely important that we do all we can to enable as many people as possible to experience them and marvel at them, just like we’ve had the opportunity to do.

Please help us to ensure that St Andrew's Church can be used and enjoyed by as many people as possible, for as long as possible!

Thank you for your donation - it is so very much appreciated!